Buying a dog - essential advice - useful tips and questions to ask

Buying a dog - essential advice - useful tips and questions to ask. Part of the SVS Film series of videos on buying and training a dog, using a Cockapoo called 'Dill' as an example.

[@cowlickcombs715]

I must say Karen, that your videos have been much appreciated by us! Thank you. I was wondering if you or anyone else have run into any problems with your Cockapoo feeling dizzy, weak, shaky, etc. We've had 2 trips to the Vet already where they kept her overnight and gave her an IV. Our vet figures that she licked or ate something that poisoned her a bit. As I sit here and write this now, our little Cockapoo (Cha Cha) at 6 months is very weak once again. We met the mother and the breeder before we decided on Cha Cha. I don't know.

[@svsfilm]

Hello there, I am so very sorry to hear that your puppy is so unwell. I must confess that, to date, I haven't heard of anyone with a similar problem. It must be very unsettling and worrying for you. No doubt your vet will want to carry out more tests on your puppy, but, if he or she thinks it may be something she ate, it may be worth checking round your home and garden for anything she may be licking. Think about common foodstuffs in your home that can upset a puppy (e.g. chocolate, grapes, onion), your cleaning fluids, paintwork. Maybe take her out on a long lead or follow her round the garden for a bit to see if you can spot anything that she may have dug up or eaten. Are you sure you haven't got a pile of old apples or fruit that she has eaten? We once had a dog that managed to get drunk on fermenting apples in the compost. I'm sure your vet will get to the bottom of it, but please do let me know how the poor little dot gets on. Kindest Regards, Karen

[@cowlickcombs715]

Thank you very much for your response and for your helpful tips. As it turned out this time, our puppy had an infection from her spaying incision. We're going to have to chalk it up as another bad luck encounter. We did go to a different vet this time and feel much better with that. Keep up the good work Karen. @@svsfilm

[@svsfilm]

@@cowlickcombs715 Thank goodness the problem has been identified. Your poor puppy must have been feeling dreadful, but hopefully all that is now in the past, and she can start bouncing around as normal. Stay safe and happy, and get used to enjoying life with a dog again. Very kindest wishes and hopes that Christmas and 2021 is good to you all.

[@eliakimjosephsophia4542]

My Cockapoo took after his mum, in colouring and he is more Spaniel than he is Poodle. It was their first litter and they said it would be last, it was a lot of work for them. His parents were both KC registered show dogs. He's adorable. Some of his fur is curly wavy, and some is straight. He wasn't quite what I was looking for in colouring or coat type, but his mum asked me to take her son. He was the last one left. I wouldn't be without him.

[@carolannaitken5812]

I got a mini poodle because I didn't want to chance shedding. He is a beautiful dog and would encourage people to consider a straight up poodle when you're making your dog decision.

[@hayleygregory8373]

Hi Karen Thank you so much for your message. You have done an amazing job with Dill. She is absolutely adorable. Loved the Country walk in the video. It looked so tranquil and peaceful.

[@svsfilm]

Thank you, Hayley. We know we are very fortunate to live in such a beautiful area, and Dill is the perfect companion for our walks - she gives us lots of opportunity to meet and chat with others (in safer times). Kindest Regards, Karen

[@svsfilm]

Thank you for your kind comments. We are extremely lucky where we live. We have amazing walks practically on our doorstep. I'm glad you liked seeing Dill having fun racing around and playing - we'll try to remember to capture more such moments to share with you all. Kindest Regards, Karen

[@ansielatsky2558]

I would like one but I am living in south African

[@svsfilm]

Our suggestions and tips apply to most breeds of dogs. Thanks for watching!

[@robertgibson7716]

my wee girl is now 4 and half we got two new grandchildren and she loves them to bits shes got her daddies toy poodle coat love her to bits xx

[@svsfilm]

Sounds like you are having a great time. Many thanks for watching our video.

[@hideteak9098]

I have debated for a very long time with myself about getting a dog but didn't know where to start the process. I''ve been aware of puppy farming and potential pitfalls but you've made so many of those much clearer with all the explanations of the points you make. If I'm ever in a position to get a puppy, I will be revising from this video and will be much more confident of playing my part well. Thank you so much for sharing this :)

[@svsfilm]

Thank you so much for your kind comments. It makes it all worthwhile if I can help one potential owner to find a happy, healthy puppy to join their family. Kindest Regards, Karen

[@Julian0886]

Hi Karen, what do you advice if the day you go to choose the puppy, the one(s) you fell in love with are already reserved ? If all other criteria are met ? Abandon the process ? Or commit to another 2nd choice puppy ? Life can be full of good surprises ...

[@svsfilm]

Hello there, Choosing a puppy is such a big decision, and there is often a tussle between heart and mind. In the situation you describe you will already have gone through all the due diligence (mind) stuff, and be satisfied that the puppies are from a caring background, healthy and clean. This means that your internal debate is about your heart, that is, whether any of the puppies on offer seem to be the perfect match for you. All puppies are little individuals, some gel with us, and more or less choose us, with others there might be some reticence or something that doesn’t quite ‘feel’ right. That doesn’t mean that we should ignore it. You are going to have this little soul in your family for a long time to come, so don’t rush into choice. Spend a little time with the puppies in a group and watch them - see whether any have the character that you are looking for; see which ones seek out your company. It could be argued that you will love any dog once you get it home, but I would say that if none of them are quite right, and you still yearn for the one you can’t have - walk away. Keep looking until you find the puppy that you have a connection with. It took me a year to find Dill, and trust me I was looking! I was disappointed a number of times, but it was worth the wait. Good luck with the search, and do let us know how you get on.

[@Cristiano69420]

@@svsfilm wow you write a lot 😮

[@tammielpowell]

Since folks are using your video as reference, I can share that my Cockapoo, a bit over a year old, has been a joy. She is smart and happy-go-lucky. She has a wavy curly coat, rarely sheds, doesn't like to be left alone but accepts when it's necessary, can be a picky-pants about her kibble, loves most people food, loves to play ball, was easy to potty train, is very bright, was a shy young pup but blossomed into a confident young adult.

[@svsfilm]

Many thanks for watching our video. We are so pleased that your puppy has grown into such a lovely dog.

[@kathleensi]

but from my experience, breeders don’t like those customers who asking so much questions. and they are trying to avoid to talk about more in details.

[@svsfilm]

If a breeder doesn't like a potential buyer of a puppy asking questions, I'd advise the buyer to walk away. Any responsible breeder would welcome questions as a sign that the buyer has the puppy's best interests at heart. Sorry to sound blunt, but I feel really strongly about this one. Kindest Regards, Karen

[@bea4954]

This helped a lot thank you so much!

[@svsfilm]

Glad it helped! Your kind comment makes doing the video worth the effort.

[@kimberleyralph3864]

Brilliant informative video, thank you x

[@lisabaker9036]

Thanks for all of your advice.

[@svsfilm]

Many thanks for watching our video - so pleased it helped.

[@SLSanders1]

You are so kind!!! Thank you for sharing this advice. I’m starting to look for a puppy again and you reminded me of so many things that I didn’t think or even know to ask before purchasing my last dog.

[@svsfilm]

Thank you so much for your kind comments. It makes creating the videos seem worth the effort. Best of luck in your hunt for a puppy.

[@jbooots8691]

This was so useful, thank you! And can I just say your voice is incredibly soothing!

[@svsfilm]

Thank you! I hope you find the perfect companion for your family. Enjoy every moment. Kindest Regards, Karen

[@MoppieDun]

The info is very useful for other breeds too, thank you so much 😊

[@svsfilm]

Thank you very much for your kind comments. Hopefully, it will help potential owners to avoid at least some of the pitfalls, and all of the puppy farmers. Kindest Regards, Karen

[@andrewnyc123]

This was very informative and thoughtful! Thank you

[@svsfilm]

Thank you for your kind comment, Andrew. I'm delighted if the video helped. Kindest Regards, Karen

[@scarlettsmall]

Hi Karen, thank you so much for all the videos. We can’t wait to bring home our own cockapoo! With Covid and the new restrictions I think we’ll be limited to FaceTime calls instead, what questions would you recommend asking and what things to see on the call? Thank you

[@svsfilm]

Hello Scarlett, have you already committed yourself to buying a particular puppy? The reason I ask is that the questions I would ask before finding a puppy, would be very different from those asked with a puppy already on the way. Let me know what the situation is, and I'll get back to you. Kindest Regards, Karen

[@scarlettsmall]

@@svsfilm We decided on a cockapoo after seeing your videos and researching what the best dog breed would be for us as a family. We haven't committed to a particular puppy yet, although we are currently on a few waiting lists. 2 of them are registered dog breeders and the other 2 are more local and are family pets, most of them have DNA testing and the one is in the process of getting them done. All are due to be born in the next few weeks so with potentially still being in lockdown we will be limited with visits etc. Look forward to hearing from you. Thank you, Scarlett

[@svsfilm]

@@scarlettsmall Hello again Scarlett, Personally, I wouldn't buy a puppy without spending quite a bit of time with the breeder and the puppies. I would wait until after the virus is under control. There will be fewer people rushing to buy puppies then, and it will be easier to keep a calm head, and not rush into buying a puppy that might not be suitable. That said, I do appreciate that some people aren't able to wait, so let me try to help if that is your situation. Nearly everyone is now able to send videos from their 'phone, so ask for regular video updates on the puppies progress. Take note of how the puppies interact with each other and with their mother and any people in the film. Also, look at the background - is it clean? Whether the puppy comes from a registered breeder, or a private breeder, it would be a good idea to ask about where the dog and puppies are kept, whether there are children about, any toilet training, the age of the mother, her nature, how active she likes to be, her general health, whether it is her first litter, the number in the litters, whether there were any problems with the pregnancy of birth, whether you can see photos of any previous litters or better still can speak to owners of puppies from previous litters, ask what the puppy will come with (vaccinations, bedding, crate, insurance, food?) - if food doesn't come with the pup think twice - you need to keep the puppy on its weaning food for a little while after you get it and only a thoughtless breeder would pack a pup off without that food, what aftercare help is offered... Never be afraid to ask any questions that creep into your mind - a good breeder will be happy as they'll know you are serious. I'd advise against getting a puppy with a merle colouring because this can be associated with health issues (check the internet for details), a puppy described as roan is not to be confused with merle. Roan is a normal colour for cocker spaniels and doesn't seem to influence the health of the cockapoo puppies. Don't pay to go on a waiting list - there's no guarantee you'll end up with a puppy. This all sounds a bit negative - it isn't. You'll have your new family member for 12 or so years, so take your time to get the right one. Once you bring it home, go to the vet as soon as possible to have it checked over. Do ask me more questions if you need to, and let me know how you get on. It is an exciting time, and you will have a friend for life. Very kindest regards, Karen

[@hayleygregory6082]

Hi I wanted to ask where you brought Dill from or whether you can give me any details of breeders. As I am wanting to buy another Cockapoo. Love your videos. Really enjoy watching them all.

[@svsfilm]

Hello there, we bought Dill after about a year of looking for the right puppy for us. She came from a very loving family home, and her mum's history and temperament was perfect for us. Her dad is a registered stud miniature poodle living in a family environment with two other dogs, one of which is also a stud. He has had an impressive and important array of DNA tests clearing him of many of the dreadful diseases that may be a problem in miniature poodles, and could be passed on to their progeny. As to finding the puppy for you, it really is a case of doing your research. Think of the needs of your family, and the activities you enjoy, and then set about the search - have a look at my video about buying a cockapoo. Please beware of buying during a pandemic - there are a lot of people looking for puppies at this time, and there are an awful lot of unscrupulous people breeding and trading puppies out there. Ask lots of questions, always see the mum, try to see the dad. Hopefully you'll have your puppy for many years to come - so don't rush. If something doesn't look or feel right, walk away. Always take any puppy you get to the vets as soon as possible to make sure all is well. Good luck, and do let me know how you get on. Kindest Regards, Karen

[@duttybobb]

Very knowledgeable and well explained! Really glad this popped up and autoplayed.

[@svsfilm]

I am very pleased you found the video useful.

[@Jezobelo]

im getting one in 3 weeks shes a f1b, her dad is a poodle so dunno if she will have cork screw curls or wavy but either way shes my baby

[@svsfilm]

Congratulations on the new member of your family. I'm sure she'll be wonderful.

[@lewispuleo9827]

Hi just like to ask what is your dog breed, for example is it a f1 or f2. I know it’s a cockapoo

[@svsfilm]

Hello Lewis, Thanks for your enquiry. There are three different parentage options for Cockapoos. The F1 is the result of a mating between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle (normally Miniature); and F1b is between a Cockapoo and either a Cocker Spaniel or a Poodle (normally a poodle); and, and F2 is between two Cockapoos. The further away from the original breed, the less predictable the look and character in terms of Cocker Spaniel or Poodle traits. Dill is an F1b. Her mother is a Cockapoo (American Cocker Spaniel x Miniature Poodle) and her father is a Miniature Poodle - so Dill is 75% Poodle and 25% American Cocker Spaniel. She is curly-coated, but some of her litter mates are smoother. Females tend to be smaller than dogs - Dill's brothers are quite a bit chunkier. As with all cross breeds there is no guarantee as to which parentage line the pup will look or act like, but the greater the percentage of one breed increases the likelihood the puppy will inherit from that side. As to behaviour, the owner's input is really important. A happy well-trained dog is always going to be more pleasant to own. Hope this helps. Kindest Regards, Karen

[@alexa3486]

Hi Karen! This video and your replies to others are so helpful for me. If I do get a cockapoo, how will it act with a cat in the house? She's 10 years old. I already have a plan on how to get them to meet each other slowly. My family is very supportive to get the dog. Any tips?

[@svsfilm]

Hello Alexa, Sorry for the delay in replying. I understand your concern about bringing a puppy in to a home that you already share with a 10 year old cat. A lot comes down to the personality of your cat and the puppy. As a general rule, the confident cat will have the upper hand. I'm sure you've thought of this already, but make sure that the cat has its own space and room to get out of the reach of the puppy, and let the cat set the pace of introduction. I remember years ago bringing a puppy into our house when we had a family cat. The cat treated him with disdain, but one day decided to sleep in the puppy's bed. The puppy barreled into the room after playing outside, flew across the carpet and leapt into his bed, only to find himself sitting on the cat. The cat sat bolt upright and slapped him round the face! After that the puppy had respect, and the cat occasionally allowed him to sit in his bed with her. Hope it all goes well, Kindest Regards, Karen

[@alexa3486]

@@svsfilm Thank you! I will keep this in mind!

[@oliverlinkson5756]

Hello Karen it’s ollie I’m a 16 year old man and we’re going to visit a possible future red cockerpoo puppy tomorrow is there any chance you could send a list of things that me and my family will need to buy as fist time owners or a video would be great as they only three weeks old tomo and we will have to get the things in the next month and want to be fully prepared Cheers

[@svsfilm]

Hello Oliver, Thanks for your message, good idea about making a list in preparation for the arrival of your puppy. The obvious breakdown is food, bedding, grooming, cleaning and safety. Let's go through them. Food: initially stick very closely to the food that your puppy has been weaned onto by the breeder. Puppies have delicate tummies, and changing food suddenly is likely to give them digestive issues. Get the full details from the breeder before picking up your puppy. If you want to change the diet later, that's fine, but do it gradually. Your puppy will need access to drinking water at all times - especially important if the puppy is fed dry food. Obviously two bowls needed: one for food, one for water. Treats for training are fine - there are shop bought ones, or tiny bits of chicken or cheese work brilliantly. Some human foods, such as chocolate, grapes, chewing gum etc are really bad for dogs so don't give it anything before checking it is safe. Bedding: hopefully the breeder will give you a blanket that smells of the puppy's mother / litter mates. That'll help your puppy to settle. You'll need a puppy bed, but don't be tempted to get an enormous one - puppies like to feel safe and cosy, so a small bed lets them tuck up tight - actually a cat cave (one of those soft beds that has a top to it) is great for the first few months. I would always have a crate for reasons I've covered in the videos. If you have one, put a puppy toilet training pad in the bottom (it'll soak up any urine). Grooming: puppies have a much softer coat than adult dogs, so a nice soft brush is probably sufficient in the first month or so - take it slowly, do it when the puppy is tired and relaxed, and mix it with stroking - then your pup will enjoy it. Some cockapoos have curly coats, some smooth - later grooming tools will depend on hair type - for curly use detangling spray and a metal wide toothed comb to lift the coat away from the skin. You'll need puppy toothpaste and either a finger brush or a toothbrush - just introduce your puppy to these, don't make it an ordeal. Lastly, cotton pads to clean eye stains (NOT eyes) - soak in cooled previously boiled water and wipe away any sleep. Cleanliness: puppy shampoo (don't bathe your puppy often, but it may roll in unmentionables; puppy bottom wipes just in case it sits in its own poop; and, dog poop bags for the inevitable when you are out walking your puppy after its second jab. Safety & law: you'll need a collar, and a harness if you want, and a lead. Think of the size of your puppy and get lightweight ones to begin with. The law in England and Wales requires you to have an identification disc with your Surname, first line of your address, postcode, and telephone number - you can add your vet's number if you like. DO NOT put your puppy's name on it - that'll just help someone else to entice it away. A dog needs the identification on it any time it is out in public. Poop bags are essential when out. Puppies explore the world through their mouths - so check the room to make sure there is nothing that could cause problems if the puppy attacked it. Now the fun things: soft toys are great, but dispose of them if and when the puppy starts getting the stuffing out, chewy toys (your puppy will start teething sooner than you think so give it suitable alternatives to the dining chair legs). When picking things think of the size of your puppy - no good getting a toy that is twice its weight just yet. Gosh this list looks massive and daunting, but you'll actually have fun picking it all out. Let me know how you get on. Kindest Regards, Karen

[@oliverlinkson5756]

Hey Karen thanks a lot for the information

[@Combat556]

Thank you 😊

[@svsfilm]

I am so pleased you found the video useful - many thanks for watching!

[@buhboni7324]

Good information

[@svsfilm]

Hello there, thank you so much for your feedback. It's always good to know that people are finding the information useful, and the feedback guides the types of activity that I cover in future. Kindest regards, Karen

[@mellyme1978]

I’ve never seen a video so informative about this dog selection process. Unfortunately, I’ve already experienced a fumble with a greedy breeder. Nonetheless, as a novice willing to learn, I’ve gathered more information that will help me make the best selection possible! Thank you very much. I have shared this video with others. Best to you!

[@svsfilm]

Thanks for your message. If the videos help just one person, then the effort made to put them together is well worth while. Thank you for your kind words and support. Kindest Regards, Karen

[@sairy6]

Hi Karen, love your videos. I was wondering what made you choose a cockapoo rather than a purebred cocker spaniel or poodle? What other breeds have you owned?

[@svsfilm]

Hello there, Thanks for your kind remarks, and for your questions. Let me deal with the breeds I've had over the years. Well, I'm long in the tooth now, so the list is quite long. When I was young and living with my parents we had corgis. Once I was living away from home we had a Dalmation, then a number of West Highland White Terriers, then a number of Miniature Schnauzers, and Dill is our first Cockapoo. As an F1b, therefore three-quarters Poodle and one-quarter Cocker Spaniel, we hoped that she would be less likely to have the obsessive traits of a Cocker Spaniel, and, like our Schnauzers, would be less likely to shed hair than a Cocker Spaniel. On the other hand we wanted some of the independence of the Cocker Spaniel (Poodles are great for obedience work, but can be a bit clingy and anxious if left alone). We also hoped that a cross-breed would reduce the likelihood of certain diseases that were more likely in the pure-breed Cockers or Miniature Poodles. Hope that answers your questions. Kindest Regards, Karen

[@sairy6]

@@svsfilm thanks for your reply. You've had quite a mixture of breeds there over the years. I have a GSD, but am considering either a miniature poodle or possibly a cockapoo at some point in the future. There are so many wonderful breeds so it's hard to pick!

[@ajackson-ross7295]

So which one is better as we are looking at an f1 cocker spaniel mix with poodle this is from the kennel club and it’s there first litter the mum looks absolutely lovely or is it better to go for cockapoo mix with poodle I need you help thank

[@svsfilm]

Hello there, I think we're all anxious when we are getting a new puppy, and that is what makes you a good prospective owner. You aren't buying a puppy from the Kennel Club, the breeder might be registered with them, or the stud dog may be registered, but you still need to use due diligence to check you have the right puppy for you. Ask about health (knee and hip issues and DNA testing for eye, kidney issues etc.). Look at the home environment and the breeders - are you comfortable with the set up, and do they offer good after-care. Make your list of your ideal dog - activity levels, good with people, good with other animals, likely to roam, noisy, independence, easy to train, amount of grooming needed, personality, looks - and more importantly which of these would be deal breakers. Then see how the proposed puppy is likely to match up to that list (hint - no puppy will hit all the right notes, and no puppy is guaranteed). If it is at all possible do go along and see the mother (and father). Is the mother a show cocker (calmer in nature), or a working cocker (much more active) - ask questions related to your list, and think which would suit you and your family better. Oh, and beware. If you have anyone with a dog allergy and you are hoping that a cockapoo will be the solution, do be careful. No dog would be totally safe, but it is true that the curly poodle coat produces far fewer problems. The catch is that the coat of F1 puppies ranges from very spaniel-like, right through to poodle curls. There is no guarantee what sort of coat you will get. In the end it all comes down to personal choice and your lifestyle. Once you have your puppy, whichever one you choose, you'll be just fine. I would have no doubt about that, as you are obviously someone who will be a very caring and conscientious dog-owner. Enjoy! Kindest Regards, Karen

[@ajackson-ross7295]

@@svsfilm yes they are all of the above she has been doing it over 15 years all the checks I can’t mention who they are as for private reasons but they are looked after beautiful coats my sister has a cockapoo mix with poodle so lovely but I don’t know what to go for what breed is urs as she looks lovely many thanks

[@svsfilm]

@@ajackson-ross7295 Hello again, again, I know it is a bit of a dilemma. From the description of the coat, I'd suggest the Cocker Spaniel is a show cocker - so calmer than a working variety. It is all a question of personal choice, but remember that puppies are like Forrest Gump's box of chocolates, you never know what you'll get until you get one. In the end, a well-trained dog, is the best one - and that is in your hands. Kindest Regards, Karen